Jr. T-Ball – 2nd Grade PSA Baseball

Plano Sports Authority 6500 Preston Meadow Dr. Plano, TX 75024 http://psaplano.org (972) 208-5437

Rev. 20170123 bj Contents PSA Baseball Rules

Contents I. General Rules

A. Game Rule ...... 1

B. Code of Conduct ...... 1 II. Levels of Competition

A. Levels Offered ...... 2

B. Comparison Chart ...... 2

C. Competitive – Advanced Program ...... 3

D. Recreational – Intermediate Program ...... 4

E. Recreational – Beginner Program ...... 5 III. Teams

A. Rosters ...... 6

B. League Levels ...... 6

C. Managers / Coaches ...... 7 IV. Games – General Rules of Play

A. Warming Up ...... 9

B. Field Dimensions ...... 9

C. Game Duration ...... 9

D. Official Game ...... 10

E. Inning / Game Run Rules ...... 10

F. No Catch-up Rule ...... 10

G. Extra Innings ...... 11

H. Minimum Players and Forfeits...... 11

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Contents PSA Baseball Rules

I. Dugout ...... 12

J. Infield Fly Rule ...... 12

K. Scoreboard Operator ...... 12

L. Game Score, Standings and Official Scorekeeper ...... 12

M. Umpires / Officials ...... 12 V. Equipment / Apparel

A. Jewelry / Apparel ...... 14

B. Baseballs ...... 14

C. Metal Spikes ...... 14

D. Helmets ...... 14

E. Bat Eligibility ...... 14

F. Bat Donut ...... 15

G. Catcher’s Equipment ...... 15

H. Protective Cup ...... 15 VI. Batters

A. Batting Order ...... 16

B. On-deck Batters...... 16

C. Dropped 3rd Strike ...... 16

D. Bunting ...... 16

E. Hitting off a Tee ...... 16

F. Pitches / Swings ...... 17

G. Thrown Bats ...... 18

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Contents PSA Baseball Rules

VII. Runners

A. Advancing Base, Overthrows, Completion of plays ...... 19

B. Leading Off-Base and Stealing ...... 20

C. Sliding / Avoiding Contact ...... 20

D. Speed Up Rule ...... 21 VIII. Fielding

A. Fair Play Rules ...... 22

B. Developmental Fielding Rules...... 22

C. Players and Alignment ...... 23 IX. Pitchers

A. Pitching Limits ...... 25

B. Pitching Records ...... 25

C. Warm up ...... 25

D. No Re-Entry as Pitcher...... 26

E. Hit Batters………………………………………….……………..26

F. Balk Rule………………………………………………………….26

G. Strongly Suggested Pitch Counts……………………………26

X. Game Protest……………………………………………………27

XI. Post-Season Tournaments.………………………………..28

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I. General Rules PSA Baseball Rules

I. General Rules

A. Game Rules: The playing rules of the PSA Baseball program shall be the Major League Baseball Official Rules as published on the MLB.com website, except as modified herein.

Link: http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/official_info/official_rules/foreword.jsp

B. Code of Conduct: Coaches are responsible for the conduct of their team’s coaches, players, parents, and spectators at all times. For issues involving unruly parents or spectators, the umpire shall coordinate warnings and ejections through the head coach or acting head coach of the associated team.

Umpires may issue a warning for coaches, players, parents and/or spectators who are unruly, however, PSA shall support a zero tolerance policy with respect to unruly or otherwise disrespectful behavior and an umpire may elect to eject a player and/or head coach without warning should the behavior so warrant. Coaches, players, parents, or spectators may be asked to leave the game area if necessary. Upon ejection, a coach or player must leave the game area. In addition, if a PSA Baseball Board Member is in attendance of a baseball game they may enforce the code of conduct if necessary.

If the unruly behavior continues or the coach, player, parent or spectator refuses to leave the game area, the umpire shall stop the game and the offending team or team(s) shall forfeit the game. If necessary local authorities may be called to address excessively unruly or threatening behavior or to address refusal to leave the game area. Based on the umpire’s judgment, it is possible in this instance for the umpire to declare a forfeit for both teams.

Penalties below represent penalties for violations for a team in separate games:

. 1st Violation = Ejection of head coach from current game, plus head coach suspension of one additional game. . 2nd Violation = Ejection of head coach or acting head coach from current game, plus regular head coach banned for the remainder of the season. . 3rd Violation = Ejection of head coach or acting head coach from current game, plus team suspension for remainder of the season.

Umpires shall document all incidents resulting in coach and/or player ejections to the corresponding PSA Baseball League director within 24 hours of the completion of the game.

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II. Levels of Competition PSA Baseball Rules

II. Levels of Competition

A. Levels Offered: In keeping with PSA’s “Rec to Select” slogan, PSA Baseball will offer up to three levels of competition to meet to needs of our youth baseball community: Recreational – Beginner, Recreational – Intermediate and Competitive - Advanced.

B. Comparison Chart:

Recreational Competitive Description Beginner Intermediate Advanced League Levels Grade / Age Based Grade / Age Based Age Based *Junior T-Ball CP1 through 8th Levels offered 7U through 14U through 8th Grade Grade PSA Rules / Applicable Rules PSA Rules PSA Rules Advanced Rules May be Open or May be Open or Rosters Closed Only Closed Closed Individual Registration Yes Yes No Accepted Game Locations Plano Only Plano Only Plano Only Dropped 3rd Strike 5th Grade and older 5th Grade and older 9U and Older Leading Off (loose 4th Grade and older 4th Grade and older 9U and Older bases) Base Stealing 3rd Grade and older 3rd Grade and older 9U and Older Mandatory (Fair) All League Levels All League Levels None Play Rules 7 Runs for 7th / 8th 7 Runs for 7th / 8th Grade Grade PSA Rules / Inning Run Rules Advanced Rules 5 Runs for T-Ball – 5 Runs for T-Ball – 6th Grade 6th Grade PSA Rules / Game Run Rules All League Levels All League Levels Advanced Rules  Junior T-Ball through Modified T-Ball leagues are not divided into beginner / intermediate leagues.

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II. Levels of Competition PSA Baseball Rules

C. Competitive - Advanced Program:

Description: The Competitive - Advanced Program (7U-14U) leagues are designed specifically for skilled players and teams who previously played in recreational leagues looking for more competition or select/club teams looking for a competitive league play to help develop their teams for tournament play. Rosters are closed and may require a tryout at the coach's discretion. PSA will not move players from the recreational league onto a competitive team.

League Levels: League levels for the Competitive - Advanced Programs are set by PSA and are currently established by player age (e.g. 9U, 10U, etc.). Prior to each season, PSA shall determine and publish the league levels at which the PSA shall participate.

Playing Rules: The playing rules for Advanced shall be PSA Baseball Rules and Advanced Modifications.

Corresponding League Levels:

Competitive - Advanced Recreational League Level Program 1st Grade Coach Pitch 1 (CP1) 7U 2nd Grade Coach Pitch 2 (CP2) or MKP 8U Coach Pitch or MKP

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II. Levels of Competition PSA Baseball Rules

D. Recreational – Intermediate Program:

Description: For players/teams starting in 1st Grade that have a mix of skill levels, rosters may be open or closed. Teams are generally mature teams comprised of players with multiple years of experience but want to remain in recreational baseball. Typically, this is the upper division of recreational baseball offered at PSA.

League Levels: League levels for the Recreational – Intermediate Program shall be established by player grade allowing for players to participate with classmates. Player grade level must be at or below the league grade level (examples – 2nd Grade, 3rd Grade, etc.). PSA may establish age restrictions to grade level leagues as well. If the Board is informed of special circumstances prior to registration, it will evaluate each case individually.

Playing Rules: The Recreational – Intermediate leagues shall comply with the PSA Baseball Rules contained herein this document.

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II. Levels of Competition PSA Baseball Rules

E. Recreational - Beginner Program:

Description: For players/teams that are new to baseball or are in interested in a developmental league. Rosters may be open or closed and may have a mix of skill levels within a team. PSA realizes that players of all ages may want to try baseball for the first time without being in a competitive environment with players that have played for numerous years. Typically, this is the lower division of recreational baseball and will help player’s/team’s develop their baseball skills in a recreational environment.

*Junior T-Ball through Modified T-Ball are general considered developmental leagues and one only level of competition is offered.

League Levels: League levels for the Recreational program shall be established by player grade allowing for players to participate with classmates. Player grade level must be at or below the league grade level (examples – 2nd Grade, 3rd Grade, etc.). PSA may establish age restrictions to grade level leagues as well. If the Board is informed of special circumstances prior to registration, it will evaluate each case individually.

Playing Rules: Recreation Program leagues shall comply with the PSA Baseball Rules contained herein this document.

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III. Teams PSA Baseball Rules

III. Teams

A. Rosters: Each team is recommended to have a minimum of 13 players and a maximum of 15 players. Coaches may exceed 15 players with Board approval. Closed rosters with less than 13 players must pay for 13 roster spots; each additional spot over 13 must be paid for. Plano Sports Authority (PSA) may add players to open rosters with less than 13 players.

In order to be eligible to participate in an official PSA game, all players must be listed on the team’s official PSA roster, have paid their registration fees either individually or via team registration fee, and have an electronic or paper waiver on file with PSA. Each season, the PSA Baseball Board will set a date for final rosters, any changes to an official team roster after this date will require Board approval.

B. League Levels:

League Pre-K Jr. T-Ball* Pre-K Regular T-Ball* Kindergarten - Modified T-Ball 1st Grade - Coach Pitch 1 (CP1) 2nd Grade - Coach Pitch 2 (CP2), Modified Kid Pitch (MKP) *See PSA Baseball current season information for age / expected kindergarten start restrictions at http://psaplano.org

. Highest Grade for any player on a roster determines the League level for a team. An exception may be requested if a player if age appropriate for a grade but is in the next highest grade level (Requires Board Approval). . PSA reserves the decision to apply additional restrictions based on age (minimum / maximum). . Players may play up one level with parent / guardian approval. . Players may play up two levels only with PSA Baseball Board – League Director Approval. . No player my play down a league level. . No player may play on two teams at the same league level. . Players may play both PSA Recreational and Advanced at the corresponding league level, but a player who has pitched even a single pitch at the PSA Advanced level is ineligible to pitch at the Recreational level in the same season, including post-season tournament. o PSA does not track players outside of PSA Baseball; this rule only applies to pitchers within PSA. . Pitching limits shall apply to an individual pitcher, a pitcher pitching on multiple teams within PSA do not receive pitching limits per team.

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III. Teams PSA Baseball Rules

. If the Board is informed of special circumstances prior to registration, it will evaluate each case individually.

C. Managers/Coaches:

League Managers/Coaches Jr. T-Ball . Offensive coach is allowed at home plate to help the batter. . Offensive base coaches are allowed at 1st and 3rd base. . Defensive coaches are allowed on the field to instruct the players. . An adult coach must be in the dugout at all times when players are present. Reg. T-Ball . Offensive coach is allowed at home plate to help the batter and place the ball in play. . Offensive base coaches are allowed at 1st and 3rd base. . 2 Defensive coaches (one on each side of the infield) are allowed on the playing field. Defensive coaches can set up the defense prior to each play and shall act as umpires. . Other defensive coaches shall remain in the dugout or on the field within reach of the dugout entrance. . An adult coach must be in the dugout at all times when players are present. Modified T-Ball . Only the Coach Pitcher is allowed on the playing field and only when pitching. The Coach Pitcher must make his/her way off the field as quickly as possible and in a direction that will not affect the play. . The Coach Pitcher may instruct the batter / runners prior to throwing a pitch, but may not instruct the batter once the ball leaves the coach pitcher’s hand and may not instruct any runner on a ball put in play. An offending Coach Pitcher will be given one warning, and then removed after a repeated infraction. . Offensive base coaches are allowed at 1st and 3rd base . One defensive coach shall remain behind home plate at the backstop to retrieve pitched balls and throw them back to the coach-pitcher. . Defensive coaches are not allowed on the playing field in fair territory. One defensive coach on each side of the field is allowed in the outfield foul territory. . Other defensive coaches shall remain in the dugout or on the field within reach of the dugout entrance. . An adult coach must be in the dugout at all times when players are present.

Section continued next page

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III. Teams PSA Baseball Rules

C. Managers/Coaches (continued):

League Managers/Coaches CP1, CP2, MKP . Team(s) are required to designate (1) Head Coach prior to the start of the game that will represent the team for all rule conflict issue(s) with the umpire(s). . Only the Coach Pitcher is allowed on the playing field and only when pitching. The Coach Pitcher must make his/her way off the field as quickly as possible and in a direction that will not affect the play. If the Coach Pitcher violates this rule, obstruction will be called. An offending Coach Pitcher will be given one warning, and then removed after a repeated infraction. . If a batted ball hits the Coach Pitcher, the following shall apply: o If in the umpire’s judgment, the Coach Pitcher did not make a legitimate attempt to avoid contact, the batter is declared out and no runners shall advance. o If in the umpire’s judgment, the Coach Pitcher did make a legitimate attempt to avoid contact, the ball becomes dead and a no-pitch is declared. . The Coach Pitcher may instruct the batter / runners prior to throwing a pitch, but may not instruct the batter once the ball leaves the Coach Pitcher’s hand and may not instruct any runner on a ball put in play. An offending Coach Pitcher will be given one warning, and then removed after a repeated infraction. . Offensive base coaches are allowed at 1st and 3rd base. . For CP1, a defensive coach shall remain behind home plate at the backstop to retrieve pitched balls and throw them back to the Coach Pitcher. This defensive coach may not instruct the defensive players. . For CP2 and MKP, the player catcher will attempt to receive pitches and may throw caught / stopped pitches back to the Coach Pitcher. . Other defensive coaches shall remain in the dugout or on the field within reach of the dugout entrance. . An adult coach must be in the dugout at all times when players are present.

All coaches must have a PSA certification badge, if a coach does not have a valid badge they will not be allowed on the field.

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IV. Games – General Rules of Play PSA Baseball Rules

IV. Games – General Rules of Play

A. Warming Up: . Neither team can warm up on the infield before a game. This includes taking infield or pitching practice. . No batting practice with baseballs (RIF or otherwise) is allowed on or off the field, with the exception of hitting soft toss or off a tee into a net. A portable net must be provided by the team. Hitting into a fence is not permissible. . Prior to the game, batting practice in the grass with plastic or foam balls is allowed so long as it does not interfere with ongoing games.

B. Field Dimensions: Base League Pitching Distance Paths Jr. T-Ball 40 feet n/a Reg. T-Ball 50 feet n/a Modified T-Ball 50 feet 35 feet CP1, CP2, MKP 60 feet 42 feet

Note: If league levels are combined where there is a conflict in field dimensions, the smaller dimensions shall apply (e.g. if CP1 and Mod-TBall levels are combined to form one league for a season, the 50 foot base paths and 35 foot pitching distance shall apply)

C. Game Duration: Games will have a time limit by age group according to the chart below. If the time limit has not yet expired at the time the final out of the bottom ½ inning has occurred, AND the game has not ended by the per game run rule AND the inning limit has not been reached, then the next inning shall be played. Inning Extra League Time Limit Limit Innings Jr. T-Ball 50 Minutes 3 No Reg. T-Ball 50 Minutes 4 No Modified T-Ball 60 Minutes 5 No CP1, CP2, MKP 80 Minutes 5 No

. Jr. T-Ball – Modified T-Ball o If the time limit is reached prior to completing the inning limit, the game shall end after the current batter completes his/her at-bat. . For CP1 - MKP o If an inning is started prior to the expiration of regulation time the home team will be allowed to finish their at‐bat until they score enough runs to either win the game or three outs are recorded. o No new inning will be started after the end of regulation time (measured exactly from start time to 80 minutes for CP1, CP2 & MKP. o Ties are allowed

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IV. Games – General Rules of Play PSA Baseball Rules

D. Official Game: There are no requirements for a minimum number of innings. For games shortened by inclement weather or other unforeseen event that cannot be resumed, the following chart shall be used to determine whether the game has met the criteria for an official game. Games not meeting the criteria for an official game shall be re-scheduled and shall resume where the game was halted. All pitching records and game time played shall remain in effect for halted games once resumed.

League Visiting Team is Home Team is Leading Ahead or Game is Tied Jr. T-Ball – Reg. T-Ball 2 Full Innings OR (25 Minutes and 1 Full Inning) Modified T-Ball 2 Full Innings OR (30 Minutes and 1 Full Inning) CP1, CP2, MKP 3 Full Innings OR (40 2 ½ Innings OR (40 Minutes Minutes and 1 full and 1 Full Inning) inning)

E. Inning / Game Run Rules: The following rules apply per inning and per game:

League Inning Rule Game Run Rule Jr. T-Ball No outs recorded – ½ None inning complete once all batters have hit Reg. T-Ball 5 runs or 3 outs None Modified T-Ball 5 runs or 3 outs None CP1, CP2, MKP 5 runs or 3 outs 11 run lead after 3, 6 run lead after 4

F. No Catch Up Rule: . If at any point during the game, either team cannot catch up based on the runs available to score (based on innings remaining and inning run rule), the game shall be declared over. . In addition to the Run Rules listed in the PSA rules, an umpire may also call the game if regulation time has expired and the home team is losing by more than 5 runs – regardless of inning. . If a game is called due to the No Catch-Up Rule the final score will revert back to the last full inning completed. . Example – after 4 complete innings the Visiting team is winning by 4 runs (4 – 0). In the top of the 5th inning, the Visiting team scores 3 more runs to make the score 7 – 0 and regulation time expires. The umpire may call the game before the home team bats since time has expired and the home team is losing by more than 5 runs. The final score will reflect 4‐0.

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IV. Games – General Rules of Play PSA Baseball Rules

G. Extra Innings: There is no extra innings at these levels.

H. Minimum Players and Forfeits: . Jr. T-Ball or Regular T-Ball, no minimum number of players is required, although at least 7 players are recommended. . For Modified T-Ball - MKP, a minimum of 8 players are required to start and finish a game. If a team cannot field at least 8 players within 10 minutes after the scheduled start time (or actual start time should an allowable delay occur), the game shall be declared a forfeit by the umpire-in-chief. If at any time during the game a team cannot field at least 8 players, the game shall be declared a forfeit by the umpire-in- chief. . For Regular T-Ball and older leagues: All standard infield positions, including catcher, are mandatory positions. A team must position players at the six infield positions (P, C, 1B, 2B, SS, 3B) and then position 2-4 players in the outfield (as allowed by League). o For Regular T-Ball, if a team elects to not play a catcher, the team shall NOT be able to record an out at home. A team must decide prior to the start of an inning whether or not to field a catcher. o For Modified T-Ball through MKP, failure to fill the 6 infield positions, including failure to properly equip a player to play the catcher position will result in a forfeit. . For Coach Pitch 1 - MKP, if at any point in the game (even due to injury or sickness) a team plays with only 8 players then the missing spot in the batting order will be recorded as an out each time through the batting order. . If a player arrives late to the game, he can assume the 9th position in the order the next time 9th position is due to bat and it will not be recorded as an automatic out. . Also, a forfeit occurs when it is declared so by the umpire-in-chief for any other applicable violation of the rules. . For forfeited games, the winning team coach shall report the game score as: Winning Team runs = League Inning Limit (see Section IV.C. Game Duration), Losing Team runs = 0. If both teams are required to forfeit, the score shall be recorded as a 0-0 tie. . If a coach fails to provide a completed Line-Up Card and/or Pitching Certificate (for applicable leagues) at the plate meeting prior to a game, his/her team will forfeit the game. The score will be recorded as 6-0 against the offending coach. . If both coaches fail to provide a completed Line-Up Card and/or Pitching Certificate at the plate meeting the game will be recorded as a 0-0 tie. . In either case, the PSA Board encourages the game be played as scrimmage for the sake of the kids.

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IV. Games – General Rules of Play PSA Baseball Rules

I. Dugout: The home team shall occupy the first base dugout. Batboys and/or batgirls are not permitted.

J. Infield Fly Rule: Infield fly rule is not in effect for Jr. T-Ball – Modified Kid Pitch.

K. Scoreboard Operator: For fields with an electronic scoreboard, either team may volunteer a scoreboard operator. In the event both teams volunteer a scoreboard operator, the team occupying the dugout closest to the scoreboard connection shall have first priority in providing a scoreboard operator.

L. Game Score, Standings, and Official Scorekeeper: . Standings and score are not kept for Jr. T-Ball, Regular T-Ball, and Modified T-Ball. . No outs are recorded for Jr. T-Ball. A maximum of 5 runs or 3 outs will be tallied for each ½ inning for Regular T-Ball and Modified T-Ball. . For Coach Pitch 1- MKP, standings and score will be kept. Both teams shall provide an official scorekeeper for each game. The two head-coaches and the umpire-in-chief shall confirm the score after each full inning. . The winning head coach shall be responsible for communicating the game score to the PSA via Coaches Tools in the PSA website within 24 hours after the game ends.

M. Umpires / Officials:

League Umpire(s) Jr. T-Ball No umpires will be provided to officiate the game(s). Team Reg. T-Ball coaches are responsible for understanding the rules and Modified T-Ball officiating the games. For Regular T-Ball, 2 defensive coaches shall remain in the infield and shall make safe / out calls. Any questions about game play should be referred to the League Director.

CP1 - MKP At least two (2) umpires should be provided by the league to officiate each game. Protest procedures are outlined in Section X. Game Protests.

. Any umpire’s decision which involves judgment, such as, but not limited to, whether a batted ball is fair or foul whether a pitch is a strike or ball, or whether a runner is safe or out, is final. No player, coach or manager shall object to any such judgment decision. . If there is reasonable doubt that any umpire’s decision may be in conflict with the rules, the designated head coach may appeal the decision and ask that a correct ruling be made. Such appeal shall only be made only to the umpire who made the protested decision. The

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IV. Games – General Rules of Play PSA Baseball Rules

umpire who made the protested decision may ask the other umpire for information before making his final decision.

. For CP1 - MKP - Games are to be played and counted as official if only one umpire is available for the game. If no umpires are available 5 minutes prior to the start of a game, an umpire can be pulled from a nearby game at which two umpires are available. If no umpires continue to be available within 5 minutes after the scheduled start time, the coaches can either agree to umpire the game themselves and count the game as official or request the game to be rescheduled. If coaches agree to play and count the game as official, the coaches must notify the appropriate League Director of the decision before starting the game. . Umpire Scheduler and League Director contact information is available on the PSA website (http://psaplano.org) on the Baseball - -> Baseball Board page.

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V. Equipment / Apparel PSA Baseball Rules

V. Equipment / Apparel

A. Jewelry / Apparel: Players may not wear jewelry, rings, watches, pins, or other metallic objects, except that players MAY WEAR ONE fabric, or other non-metallic, covered titanium necklace. Non-metallic and non-white wrist/arm (below the elbow) adornments are allowed. Additionally, for MKP leagues, pitchers shall not wear white sleeves below the elbow, or batting gloves and must remove their necklace if wearing one. Sunglasses (unless prescription), are not allowed for pitchers at any league level, and strongly discouraged for all other players.

B. Baseballs: Each team is responsible for supplying ½ of the necessary game balls. Game balls will be distributed by the League at the beginning of the season. Game ball may be used for more than 1 game. Coaches are expected to provide their own practice balls.

Game Balls League Baseballs used Required Jr. T-Ball 2 Total Reduced Injury Factor Level 1 (RIF-1). Reg. T-Ball 2 Total Reduced Injury Factor Level 5 (RIF-5) Baseballs will be used. Modified T-Ball 4 Total Reduced Injury Factor Level 5 (RIF-5) Baseballs will be used. CP1 - MKP 4 Total No Reduced Injury Factor (RIF) Baseballs. PSA will specify Baseballs to be used for each League Level.

C. Metal Spikes: Metal spikes are not allowed for Jr. T-Ball – MKP. A player wearing metal spikes will be immediately removed from the game so long as the player does not have non-metal spikes to wear. Should the team not be able to field 8 players when such player is removed, the action will result in a forfeit.

D. Helmets: All batters, runners, and player base coaches (where allowed) must wear protective helmet that meet National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) standards - http://nocsae.org/.

E. Bat Eligibility:

. All bats (2 ¼, 2 5/8, 2 ¾ ) must be permanently stamped with the 1.15 BPF Mark, or . BBCOR.50 Certified Mark or . Made of wood

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V. Equipment / Apparel PSA Baseball Rules

. Jr T-Ball – Modified T-Ball Bat Diameter Restriction:

o Small Barrel Only (2 ¼).

. CP1, CP2 and MKP:

o Small Barrel / Big Barrel Allowed (2 ¼, 2 5/8, 2 ¾)

F. Bat Donut: Bat Donuts are not allowed.

G. Catcher’s Equipment:

. For Regular T-Ball through Coach Pitch 2: If the catcher’s mask does not cover the throat, the catcher must wear a mask, dangling type throat guard, and catcher’s helmet during game and pitcher warm-ups. . For Modified Kid Pitch - the catcher must wear a mask, dangling type throat guard, and catcher’s helmet during game and pitcher warm-ups. . Male catchers must wear the metal, fibre or plastic type cup and a long model chest protector. . Female catchers must wear long or short model chest protectors. . All catchers must wear shin guards. . Catcher’s mitt: o Regular T-Ball – Coach Pitch 2 / Modified Kid Pitch catchers may use a regular fielder’s or 1st baseman’s mitt instead of a catcher’s mitt.

H. Protective Cup: Regardless of position played, a metal, fibre, or plastic type cup is required for male players.

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VI. Batters PSA Baseball Rules

VI. Batters

A. Batting Order: All leagues shall follow a continuous batting order. Any player arriving after a game has begun shall be inserted in the batting order in the last batting position. If a child is injured, becomes ill or must leave the game site after the start of the game, the team will skip over him/her when his/her time at bat comes up, without penalty. However, Section IV.H - Minimum Players and Forfeits applies. If the injured, ill or absent player returns to the game, he/she is merely inserted into their original spot in the batting order and the game continues.

B. On-Deck Batter(s):

League Rule Jr. T-Ball – MKP Not allowed.

No on-deck batter shall be outside the dugout. All batters must remain completely inside the dugout until their turn at bat. They are not to stand in the dugout opening.

C. Dropped 3rd Strike:

League Rule Jr. T-Ball – CP2 Not Applicable MKP Batter is out and cannot attempt to advance to 1st base.

D. Bunting:

League Bunting Fake / Slap Bunting Jr. T-Ball – CP2 Not allowed. Not Allowed MKP Allowed only against kid Not Allowed pitcher (not allowed against coach-pitcher)

. Fake or slap bunting, defined as a batter who squares to bunt and then swings or slashes at the pitch is not allowed. The batter will be called out and all runners will return to their original base, unless otherwise tagged out.

E. Hitting Off a Tee: This rule only applies for balls hit off the Tee only. Coached pitched balls hit in Modified T-ball have no minimum distance requirement. . The coach or umpire shall validate the defense is set prior to placing the ball on the tee and shall yell (or otherwise indicate) “Ball in play” when placing the ball on the tee.

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VI. Batters PSA Baseball Rules

. The ball is considered in play once the ball has been placed on the tee. . If the tee is struck instead of the ball, it will be considered a foul ball. . The ball must travel in fair territory the following minimum distances, or will otherwise be considered a foul ball (does not apply to coached pitched balls):

League Minimum Distance Jr. T-Ball 4 feet Reg. T-Ball 8 feet Modified. T-Ball 8 feet

F. Pitches / Swings:

League Pitches / Swings Jr. T-Ball . If the batter does not put the ball fairly in play after 8 swings, the batter will advance to first base and all other runners will advance 1 base. No additional attempts will be granted for a foul ball on the last attempt. Regular T-Ball . If the batter does not put the ball in to play after 8 swings, the batter is out (strikeout). . There are no walks. Modified T-Ball . Coach Pitcher may throw up to 4 pitches to the batter. . Coach Pitcher pitching positions: o Behind or even with the pitcher’s rubber, all pitches are to be thrown overhand; no underhand pitches allowed. o From a kneeling position, up to three (3) feet in front or even with the pitcher’s rubber, all pitches are to be thrown overhand; no underhand pitches allowed. . As described in Section III.Teams – C) Managers/Coaches, “The Coach Pitchers must make his/her way off the field as quickly as possible and in a direction that will not affect the play.” . If, in the umpire’s decision, a coach-pitcher makes contact with a batted ball unintentionally, the play will be declared a foul ball. . If the Coach Pitcher intentionally makes contact with a batted ball, or obstructs the defensive player from making a play, the batter will be called out, and no runners may advance. . The batter will maintain his/her at bat as long as he/she fouls off the last thrown pitch and it is not legally caught. . If the batter does not put the ball in play after 4 or more pitches, the umpire will put the ball in play by placing it on the tee. If the batter does not put the ball in play after four attempts/swings off the tee, the batter is out (strikeout). . There are no walks.

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VI. Batters PSA Baseball Rules

Coach Pitch 1 . Coach Pitcher may throw up to 8 pitches to the batter overhand from the standing position only and must start behind or even with pitcher’s rubber. . If the batter does not put the ball in play after 8 pitches, it is recorded as a strikeout. . The batter will maintain his/her at bat as long as he/she fouls off the last thrown pitch and it is not legally caught. . There are no walks. Coach Pitch 2 . Coach Pitcher may throw up to 6 pitches to the batter overhand from the standing position only and must start behind or even with pitcher’s rubber. . If the batter does not put the ball in play after 6 pitches, it is recorded as a strikeout. . The batter will maintain his/her at bat as long as he/she fouls off the last thrown pitch and it is not legally caught. . There are no walks. Modified Kid Pitch . Player will pitch to the batter until 4 balls (or 3 strikes) are called by the umpire. . If a 4th ball is thrown by the player pitcher, the Offensive Coach Pitcher will be allowed on the field and will continue the pitch count. If the count is 4-0, the coach will throw up to three pitches; if the count is 4-1 the coach will throw up to two pitches; if the count is 4-2 the coach will throw one pitch. . If the batter does not put the ball in play within the remaining Coach Pitches, it is recorded as a strikeout. . The batter will maintain his/her at bat as long as he/she fouls off the last thrown pitch and it is not legally caught. . There are no walks. . Batter hit by pitch from player pitcher is awarded 1st base.

G. Thrown Bats: The batter is responsible for ensuring that he/she releases the bat in a safe manner after swinging. If, in the umpire’s judgment, the batter releases the bat in a reckless or dangerous manner, the batter may be warned, called out, and/or ejected, at the discretion of the umpire. If the bat is released and makes contact with a player (and it is not catcher’s interference), spectator, coach, or umpire, the batter shall be called out without prior warning. In the event the batter is called out, the ball is dead and no runners may advance or score.

A player that throws their bat and or helmet in frustration may be Immediately ejected from the game at the discretion of the umpire.

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VII. Runners PSA Baseball Rules

VII. Runners

A. Advancing Bases, Overthrows, Completion of Plays:

League Advancing Bases Jr. T-Ball . Each runner will advance 1 base on a fairly hit ball. If the defense puts out a batter / runner, the batter / runner will be allowed to remain on base. With the last batter of an inning, all runners shall continue around the bases until they all touch home. Reg. T-Ball – Mod T- . Runner(s) may advance at their own risk an unlimited Ball number of bases on a fairly hit ball. . Once the ball is controlled by any defensive player in the infield, runners may only advance to the current base to which they are running. The umpire shall call “time” and play is stopped. . On an overthrow that hits the fence or otherwise goes out of play, the umpire shall call “time” and all runners will be awarded 1 base. . For overthrows remaining in play and not controlled by a defensive player, runners may advance one and only one base at their own risk on the first overthrow of a play. Runners may not advance on subsequent overthrows on the same play. If a runner attempts to advance on a subsequent overthrow and is put out, the out will stand; if said runner reaches base safely, the runner must return to the last legally occupied base. Once all runners have advanced one base and have stopped trying to advance the umpire shall call time. Coach Pitch 1 – . Runner(s) may only advance up to 2 bases (at their own Coach Pitch 2 risk) on a fairly hit ball in the in-field. o Once the runner(s) stop or reaches the maximum allowed bases for an in-field hit, the umpire shall call “time” when the play is over. . Runner(s) may advance at their own risk an unlimited number of bases on a fairly hit ball to the outfield. o As long as the ball remains in the field of play and runners are trying to advance time will not be called. . Play will stop and the umpire shall call time if the ball leaves the playing area (an overthrow over the fence, ball rolls into the dugout, ball rolls under the fence, through an open gate) or the runners have stopped trying to advance. Modified Kid Pitch . Runners may advance at their own risk an unlimited number of bases on a fairly hit ball. . As long as the ball remains in the field of play and runners are trying to advance time will not be called. . Play will stop and the umpire shall call time if the ball leaves the playing area (an overthrow over the fence, ball rolls into the dugout, ball rolls under the fence, through an

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VII. Runners PSA Baseball Rules

open gate) or the runners have stopped trying to advance.

B. Leading-off and Stealing Bases:

League Leading-Off Stealing Jr. T-Ball – MKP Not allowed. Not Allowed Runners must stay in contact with the base until the ball is hit.

. CP1 – MKP violations for leaving base early / stealing. Violations by one base runner shall affect all other base runners:

o When a base runner leaves the base before the pitched ball has reached the batter and the batter does not hit the ball, the runner is permitted to continue. If a play is made on the runner and the runner is out, the out stands. If said runner reaches base safely to the base to which the runner is advancing, all runners must be returned to the base occupied before the pitch was made, and no out results.

o When a base runner leaves the base before the pitched ball has reached the batter and the batter hits the ball, the base runner(s) are permitted to continue. If a play is made and the runner or runners are put out, the out or outs will stand. If not put out, the runner or runners must be returned to the base occupied before the pitch was made or to the nearest base to which the batter advanced.

In no event shall the batter advance beyond first base on a single or error, second base on a double, or third base on a triple. The umpire-in-chief shall determine the base value of the hit ball

o Where bunting is allowed (MKP leagues only when kid is pitching), when any base runner leaves the base before the pitched ball has reached the batter and the batter bunts or hits a ball within the infield, no run shall be allowed to score. If three runners were on the bases and the batter reaches first safely, each runner shall advance to the base beyond the one they occupied at the start of the play except the runner who occupied third base, which runner shall be removed from the base without a run being scored and no out charged.

C. Sliding / Avoiding Contact:

League Head First Slide Contact at Base / Home Jr. T-Ball Not allowed. No out Not Allowed. No out recorded, recorded, but player will be but player will be instructed. instructed. Regular T-Ball - MKP Not allowed – the runner Players are encouraged and will be called out recommended to slide feet first on any close play and will be called out for attempting to hurdle or maliciously run into a defensive player.

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VII. Runners PSA Baseball Rules

D. Speed-Up Rule: When the 2nd out occurs in an inning and the pitcher, catcher, or both, occupy a base, the team at bat may substitute a runner for those players. The substitute runner shall be the last player who made an out in the inning.

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VIII. Fielding PSA Baseball Rules

VIII. Fielding

A. Fair Play Rules: Apples to Rule All Leagues . Mandatory Play: Players must participate on the field defensively for a complete inning at least every other inning. If a player arrives after a game has begun, any defensive innings that have been played by the team shall be counted as if the player had played defensively in those innings. Player refusal to participate, injury, and discipline (so far as the players’ parents are notified) are exceptions to the alternate inning mandatory play rule described above. Regular T-Ball - MKP . No player may sit out two defensive innings in a game until all players have sat out at least one inning. For MKP exception - Pitcher of record completing the prior inning may remain at pitcher, however, if all other players have sat out an inning, then the pitcher must sit out the next inning once removed from the pitcher position. Jr. T-Ball – CP2 . No player can play the pitcher position in two consecutive innings in an individual game. . All players must play in the infield at least 1 inning per game, by the end of the third inning. CP1 – MKP . Coaches will exchange lineup cards . Lineup cards must have batting order, players first name, players jersey number, and scheduled fielding positions (5 innings).

B. Developmental Fielding Rules: Apples to Rule Jr. T-Ball . While no outs are recorded, fielders are encouraged and instructed to play the field and make the proper play on the field. Runners remain on base, even when an “out” is recorded. Regular T-Ball – CP2 . The pitcher, fielding a ball hit by the batter, may not record an out by running to any base and / or tagging any runner (exception below). The pitcher must throw the ball to another fielder to record an out. . The pitcher may record an out by stepping on home plate or tagging the runner at the plate. . The pitcher may record an out by receiving a throw at first base from another fielder. . If the pitcher violates this rule, play will continue until the play is otherwise completed, thereby, a pitcher that intuitively tags a runner may still make a throw to an appropriate base and record an out. . 1B, 2B, SS, and 3B may not be more than 10 feet in front of the base path. . Any balls hit onto the outfield, must be thrown back to the infield and secured by a player in order to stop the play (Reg T-Ball – Mod T-Ball).

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VIII. Fielding PSA Baseball Rules

C. Players and Alignment: League # of Players Alignment Jr. T-Ball All players play . ½ Players in infield, ½ players in on the field outfield. when on . Catcher position is not used. defense . 1 Pitcher positioned within one foot on the pitching rubber. . Infielders may not be more than 10 feet in front of the base path. . Outfielders may not be less than 10 feet behind the base path. Reg. T-Ball Min of 8 and . Infielders must play in standard Max of 10 positions only (P, C, 1B, 2B, SS, 3B). 1 Player per Position. . If a Team elects to not play a catcher, the team shall NOT be able to record an out at home. A team must decide prior to the start of an inning whether or not to field a catcher. . Pitcher must be positioned with one foot on the pitching rubber. . Catcher must be positioned at least 10 feet behind the batter (see Section V. G. for Required Equipment). . Teams may field up to 4 outfielders, who must be positioned at least 10 feet behind the base path. Modified T-Ball Min of 8 and . Infielders must play in standard Max of 10 positions only (P, C, 1B, 2B, SS, 3B). 1 Player per position. . When Coach Pitcher is pitching, pitcher must within 6 feet of pitching rubber and no closer to home plate than the pitching rubber; otherwise pitcher must be positioned with one foot on the pitching rubber. . See Section V. G. for required catcher equipment. . Teams may field up to 4 outfielders, who must be positioned at least 10 feet behind the base path. Coach Pitch 1 – Min of 8 and . Infielders must play in standard Coach Pitch 2 Max of 10 positions only (P, C, 1B, 2B, SS, 3B). 1 Player per position. . Pitcher must within 6 feet of pitching rubber and no closer to home plate than the pitching rubber. . See Section V. G. for required catcher equipment. . Teams may field up to 4 outfielders, who must be positioned at least 15 feet behind the base path.

Section continued next page

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VIII. Fielding PSA Baseball Rules

C. Players and Alignment (continued): League # of Players Alignment Modified Kid Pitch Min of 8 and . Infielders must play in standard Max of 9 positions only (P, C, 1B, 2B, SS, 3B). 1 Player per position. . When Coach Pitcher is on the field, pitcher must within 6 feet of pitching rubber and no closer to home plate than the pitching rubber. . See Section V. G. for Required Catcher Equipment. . Teams may field up to 3 outfielders, who must be positioned at least 15 feet behind the base path.

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IX. Pitchers PSA Baseball Rules

IX. Pitchers

A. Pitching Limits: League Max Can pitch on Requires 3 full Max Innings Innings consecutive calendar days per week Per days? off after (Sunday – Game / pitching Saturday) Day appearance MKP 3 Never After pitching 3 6 innings in a game

. Pitching limits shall apply to an individual pitcher, a pitcher pitching on multiple teams within PSA do not receive pitching limits per team.

. Should Leagues be combined across grade levels, the rules for the younger grade shall apply to all players participating in the combined League Level.

. Delivery of a single pitch in an inning constitutes having pitched a full inning. 1st pitch of the game constitutes 1 inning. A relief pitcher getting the last out an inning, will have thrown 2 innings upon delivering the 1st pitch of the next inning.

. At no time may a pitcher pitch more than two (2) consecutive days

B. Pitching Records: Pitching records, in the form of a pitcher certification, are mandatory for each game. Each team will provide a pitcher certification form to the opposing team prior to the start of each game. The scorekeeper for the opposing team will complete the form, obtain the signature of the opposing manager, and return the signed form to the other team at the conclusion of the game. This form can be found on the PSA Baseball website under the rule section.

C. Warm Up: . A player entering the game as a new pitcher is allowed a maximum of 8 warm up pitches. A player returning as a pitcher in subsequent innings is allowed a maximum of 5 warm up pitches.

. A player or adult coach may warm up a pitcher. A player who warms up a pitcher must wear a mask with a dangling type throat guard. If a player warms up a pitcher in foul territory while a game is in progress, then another player, wearing a protective helmet and glove, must be stationed behind the pitcher for safety purposes.

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IX. Pitchers PSA Baseball Rules

D. No Re-Entry as Pitcher: A player once removed as a pitcher may not pitch again in the same game

E. Hit Batters: A pitcher must be removed from the mound, and may not pitch again in the same game, after he has hit 3 batters in one game. It does not matter if he hits 3 batters in one inning or over the course of several innings, once he hits a 3rd batter, he must be removed from the mound. The number of hit batters pertains to each specific individual pitcher.

F. Balk Rule: There are no balks in 2nd Grade MKP.

G. Strongly Suggested Pitch Counts: See table below for suggestions on the handling of pitchers with regard to rest periods. Adherence to this chart is recommended to prevent injury to pitcher’s arms.

Age Max Pitches per game Recommended Rest 8-9 40-50 4 days

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X. Game Protests PSA Baseball Rules

X. Game Protests

A game protest shall be considered only when based on the violation or interpretation of a playing rule, use of an ineligible pitcher, or the use of an ineligible player. No protest shall be considered on a decision involving an umpire’s judgment.

The managers/head coaches of contesting teams only shall have the right to protest a game, or in their absence, a designated coach.

Protests shall be made as follows:

. The protesting manager/head coach shall immediately, and before the delivery of the next pitch, notify the umpire that the game is being played under protest.

. Following such notice the umpire shall consult with the other umpire(s). If the umpire is convinced that the decision is in conflict with the rules, the umpire shall reverse that decision. If, however, after consultation, the umpire is convinced that the decision is not in conflict with the rules, said umpire shall announce that the game is being played under protest. Failure of the umpire to make such announcement shall not affect the validity of the protest.

Protests made due to the use of ineligible pitcher or player may be considered only if made to the umpire before the umpire(s) leave the field at the end of the game. Whenever it is found that an ineligible pitcher or ineligible player is being used, said pitcher shall be removed from the mound, or said player shall be removed from the game, and the game shall be continued under protest or not as the protesting manager/coach decides.

Any protest for any reason whatsoever must be submitted by the manager/coach first to the umpire on the field of play and then in writing to the PSA Baseball Board within 24 hours, using the Protest Form available on the PSA Baseball website. The umpire-in-chief shall also submit a report to the PSA Baseball Board within 24 hours.

The PSA Baseball Board shall hear and resolve any such protest as above, including playing rules. If it is determined that the protested decision violated the rules, then the game will be replayed starting at the point of the protested play. If an illegal player is used (either fielding, pitching, or batting), the violation should be pointed out to the manager/head coach at the time of the infraction and a protest can then be filed as noted above. If an illegal player has been used at any point in the game and the protest is upheld, then the game will be forfeited and the protesting team will be declared the winner of the game.

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XI. Post-Season Tournaments PSA Baseball Rules

XI. Post-Season Tournaments Post-season Tournaments are not “play-offs” continued from the regular season. PSA Baseball reserves shall utilize regular season results, considering win-loss records and run differential, to determine competitively balanced post-season tournaments. In this process, PSA Baseball may re- define divisions, re-assign individual teams, and/or re-seed teams. The format of the tournament is decided by the Board at the beginning of the season and will be posted at the PSA Baseball website. The higher seed in each game is always the home team.

Seeding tie-breaker rules. For purposes of evaluating records, ties shall be evaluated as ½ a win and ½ a loss. When 2 or more teams are tied, if any step in the procedure below removes a team from the tie-breaker (either ahead or below the remaining teams) then the procedure shall reset from the beginning for the remaining tied teams.

 Head-to-head record  Head-to-head run differential  Overall run differential  Overall runs allowed  Coin flip

Where applicable, pitching limits will re-set prior to the beginning of all post- season tournaments.

Weekly pitching limits as defined in Section IX. A. shall apply for the duration of all post-season tournaments with a duration of 7 days or less. For tournaments exceeding 7 days, the League Director shall determine and communicate the applicable day when the weekly pitching limit shall reset. All other pitching limits shall be in effect for post-season tournament

Post-season tournaments may include double-headers / multiple games in a single day.

All tournament games must have a winner and loser, if the game is tied at the end of regulation then play shall continue until (1) the visiting team has scored more total runs than the home team at the end of a completed inning, or (2) the home team scores the winning run in an uncompleted inning.

Tournament games may not be shortened by inclement weather or other unforeseen events; if a tournament game is halted it will be rescheduled and resumed at the stoppage point. Before leaving the field, both teams and umpires should make sure they agree on the following:

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XI. Post-Season Tournaments PSA Baseball Rules

. Ball/Strike Count . Location of any runners . Time remaining when the game was stopped

Championship games for all post-season games shall be untimed, full inning games, with inning limits defined in Section IV. C. Games may be shortened by run rule.

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